The REAL ID Act of 2005 changed the existing U.S. federal laws on the standards of issuing state driver’s licenses and identification cards. The Act addressed issues such as security and authenticity of identification along with other immigration issues related to terrorism.
The provisions of the REAL ID Act include:
- Changing the visa limits for nurses, temporary workers, and citizens of Australia
- Creating new national standards for drivers licenses and identification cards issued by states.
- Funding for particular border security projects
- Rules pertaining to delivery bonds for aliens
- Changes to the laws pertaining to asylum applications and the deportation of terror suspects
After the law was passed, all 50 states faced difficulties coming into compliance with the law and have each applied for extensions of the original May 2008 compliance deadline. Additionally, 25 states are in the process of approving or have already approved resolutions and legislation to opt out of participation in the program, and many bills have been introduced into Congress to either amend or repeal the Act.
In our changing times, immigration laws seem to be under constant revision. Recent immigrants or citizens of other countries who wish to immigrate to the United States may face additional difficulties entering the country or applying for citizenship or a green card. To learn more about the REAL ID Act or about any other immigration law or issue, you may want to consult a qualified attorney for free advice UK . An experienced immigration attorney can help you understand all of your legal rights and the options available to you.